Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Dish

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Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of traditional enchiladas with the soothing warmth of a homemade soup. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. The blend of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices creates a meal that is both delicious and easy to prepare. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delightful soup, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Ingredients

Tortilla Puree

  • 8 corn tortillas (6-inch round)
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 cups green enchilada sauce

Soup

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (around 2 cups)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp chili seasoning
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 lb chicken breasts
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 8 oz cream cheese (room temp), cut into small cubes
  • 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Toppings (Optional)

  • 1 Roma tomato, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
  • Cilantro, chopped
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tortilla Puree

  1. Begin by cutting the corn tortillas into small pieces.
  2. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Soup Base

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes clear and tender, roughly 5 minutes.
  3. Mix in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until it releases its aroma.
  4. Add the salt, chili seasoning, cumin, and oregano, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Broth

  1. Place the chicken breasts into the pot and pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer gently.
  3. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

  1. Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and shred them using two forks.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 5: Incorporate the Tortilla Puree and Cheese

  1. Stir the prepared tortilla puree into the soup.
  2. Add the cream cheese and Monterey Jack cheese.
  3. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serving

  1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional toppings such as diced Roma tomato, diced jalapeño, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Enchilada Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the rich, cheesy goodness of enchiladas and the warm, soothing nature of soup. This recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the delicious blend of spices that make this dish truly special.